Types of Cough Medicines
There are a variety of cough medicines available depending on your specific needs. There are two major types of cough medicines: antitussives are cough suppressants that stop your cough reflex and are used for a dry cough; expectorants help to break up a cough by thinning the mucus to make your cough more productive. Over-the-counter cough medicine may be helpful for a mild cough, but for a persistent cough or a more serious condition, you may need a prescription medication.
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Over-the-Counter
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Over-the-counter cough medications may contain dextromethorphan, which is an antitussive. Dextromethorphan lowers the activity in the area of your brain that causes coughing. Examples of medications that include dexromethorphan include Drixoral and Robitussin Pediatric. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps your cough by thinning the mucus in your airways. This allows you to cough up the phlegm. Guaifenesin is an ingredient in medications such as Robitussin, Tusibron and Guiatuss.
Codeine
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Prescription medications may contain codeine, a narcotic that is a controlled substance in the United States. Codeine suppresses your cough by signaling the brain to slow your respiration. It can be habit-forming if used over a long period of time. Codeine side effects include rashes, itchiness, drowsiness, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, dilated pupils, blurred vision, fever, diarrhea, urinary retention, hypertension and shallow respiration. An allergic reaction to codeine can result in rashes and swelling.
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Home Remedies
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A teaspoon of honey with a pinch of ground white pepper can cure your cough, according to NaturalHomeRemedies.org. It should be repeated two or three times a day for four or five days. Other home remedies include ginger, raspberry, honeysuckle or licorice tea with honey. A mixture of 10 ml of honey with 5 ml of onion juice, twice a day, is said to cure your cough and soothe your throat. Gargling with warm salt water can help clear mucus.
Other Treatments
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Cough lozenges may be helpful in suppressing your cough. Some contain dextromethorphan, the cough suppressant. Others, such as Ricola, contain herbs. Keep in mind that cough drops only give temporary relief and should not be overused. Drink plenty of fluids, such as fruit juices and water. Fluids help to thin the mucus that causes your cough. Avoid secondhand smoke and other irritants that make you cough more.
Warnings
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Never take more than the recommended dosage of any medication, and never mix medications. Make sure you know the side effects and drug interactions of every medication you take. If you are not sure, consult your doctor before taking even over-the-counter medications. Remember that many cough syrups can cause drowsiness, particularly prescription cough syrups. If your cough worsens or if you have a fever above 102 degrees F, contact your doctor. If you have a bad reaction to any medication, contact your physician immediately.
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References
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